Candy Bar?

Emily had the fabulous idea of creating a "candy buffet" or bar for the bridal shower. I am researching actual pink & green candy, and found some cute favor "take out" boxes that are for Valentine's Day, but would work for our purposes!

Can you all let me know which one you like better? (Left or Right pic)

These are "big budget" candy buffets for your visual inspiration...

I like that the tablecloth matches the candy color...

(There are a few pink ones in the below pics)

Isn't the mushroom
so cute?! (That'd be more
"woodland fairy" theme...)

This is a nice monochromatic candy bar...

I like how they use sugar as "sand" to put the lollipops in...

Like the way the light catches clear glass...

the ribbon is a nice pop of color.

Different glass display containers...

I like the multi-shaded colors of jelly beans. Very cute!

Another packaging idea is brown paper bags

with ribbon (like the above).

Vienetta Ice Cream Cake

This is a little ode to one of the best ice cream cakes that ever was. (Along with my MOMMY'S fabulous frozen creations, and of course, that childhood favorite, Carvel.)

If you ever tried the original Vienetta frozen desserts, you know how capable it is of tempting you back for another slice of frozen goodness.

Let us go back about 10 years, to when Hannah and I, along with Mike McCann and a guy named Sean, each purchased our own pick for dessert (to be consumed in the Publix parking lot). My choice was, of course, the above-pictured delight... which I fully devoured by myself.

Shameless dessert eater.

Stem Cell Research

Some things have to be expressed. And one issue that is extremely close to my heart is life, and that of the unborn. It's funny how all the "you're expecting" books talk about "your baby" and try to appeal to the "human side" of the unborn, yet when a baby is unwanted, a less human term like "fetus" is applied, and facts such as the heartbeat beginning at 3 weeks post conception are overlooked.

(Did you know that you can comment on new stem cell research regulations that will force YOU to pay for the destruction of human embryos? Register your comments with the National Institutes of Health before Tuesday, May 26th.
http://nihoerextra.nih.gov/stem_cells/add.htm?tr=y&auid=4851392&msource=c4alerts&tr=y&auid=4882424)

Here are my comments:

I am extremely opposed to these embryonic stem cell research "guidelines" for multiple reasons:

In the document itself, it says the purpose of the draft guidelines is to help ensure that research is "ethically responsible, scientifically worthy, and conducted in accordance with applicable law." It is NOT ethically responsible to create, clone or destroy embryos to conduct scientific research. To create a human being for the sole purpose of destroying them is inhumane, and goes against the very essence of life itself. (What if, for instance, more thorough research could be conducted by destroying month-old infants that were "created for reproductive purposes" but were "no longer needed for these purposes"?) Two negatives do NOT make a positive here. There is much scientific evidence emerging that adult stem cells are more effective at treating sicknesses in humans. Embryonic stem cells are not effective at curing disease, and in fact, are being found to do the opposite. Surely you are aware of the rejection and the tumors that have resulted due to embryonic stem cell research. (See article: http://www.21stcenturysciencetech.com/articles/winter01/stem_cell.html) There is a greater likelihood of success in adult stem cell research, because, to quote Dr. Wolfgang Lillge, M.D., "very promising treatments of serious diseases with adult stem cells have already been tried. The special advantage is that there are no rejection reactions, because the cells are from the same body."

Your guidelines allege that "Perhaps the most important potential use of human embryonic stem cells is the generation of cells and tissues that could be used for cell-based therapies." If that's "the most important potential use of embryonic stem cells," then all of these guidelines are under false pretenses, because, as your own web site (http://stemcells.nih.gov/info/basics/basics4.asp) says, "Research on adult stem cells has generated a great deal of excitement. Scientists have found adult stem cells in many more tissues than they once thought possible." NIH has openly admitted that there is even less of a need to conduct embryonic stem cell research, since adult stem cells can be found in more places than expected. ("Fat, Bone Marrow, Dental Pulp, Liver, Skeletal Muscle, Umbilical Cords, Placentas and more," according to http://www.ascrnetwork.org/.)

The guidelines claim that "Today, donated tissues and organs are often used to replace ailing or destroyed tissue, but the need for transplantable tissues and organs far outweighs the available supply." Untrue. (See above quote by NIH.)

In the same statement, these "guidelines" claim that "Stem cells, directed to differentiate into specific cell types, offer the possibility of a renewable source of replacement cells and tissues to treat diseases and conditions, including Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spinal cord injury, burns, heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis." That may be true, but embryonic stem cell research is NOT the answer to the challenge of these diseases. No matter how it is whitewashed, creating or destroying innocent human life in the name of science can never be justified, not by President Barack Obama, not by the NIH or DHHS, nor by any scientific board that chooses to leave out the truly viable option of adult stem cell research as a truly noble and the ONLY ethical method of searching for cures.

Your draft guidelines claim to want to help ensure that research is "scientifically worthy"; would it be "scientifically worthy" to kill born humans in order to cure another? No. Similarly, it is not worth any scientific research to destroy an unborn human to cure a born human.

According to the Adult Stem Cell Research Network, "Adult stem cells can be extracted from many types of adult tissues such as fat, umbilical cord stem cells that come from the blood of umbilical cords after birth and placenta derived stem cells that have up to 10 times as many stem cells than from cord blood." There is no controversy or moral question about any of the latter statement. The government, which is funded by the people, has no legitimate reason by which they should be creating human embryos, destroying human embryos or cloning human embryos. You are not in the business of making babies; that is best left to the people. (Or have you forgotten the haunting, government-funded involuntary sterilization that began in the early 1900s and by which over 60,000 Americans were sterilized against their will because of their "social inadequacy"? http://www.eugenicsarchive.org/html/eugenics/essay8text.html)

"Advocacy in favor of sterilization was one of Harry Laughlin’s first major projects at the Eugenics Record Office. In 1914, he published a Model Eugenical Sterilization Law that proposed to authorize sterilization of the "socially inadequate" – people supported in institutions or "maintained wholly or in part by public expense. The law encompassed the "feebleminded, insane, criminalistic, epileptic, inebriate, diseased, blind, deaf; deformed; and dependent" – including "orphans, ne'er-do-wells, tramps, the homeless and paupers." By the time the Model Law was published in 1914, twelve states had enacted sterilization laws." And, "Borrowing from Laughlin’s Model Law, the German Nazi government adopted a law in 1933 that provided the legal basis for sterilizing more than 350,000 people. Laughlin proudly published a translation of the German Law for the Prevention of Defective Progeny in The Eugenical News. In 1936, Laughlin was awarded an honorary degree from the University of Heidelberg as a tribute for his work in "the science of racial cleansing.""

Scientifically worthy?

Scientifically, it would be abhorrent for you to assume the right to create or destroy human life, and especially not when there are alternatives to such monstrous invasions against life and its sacredness. (i.e., there is other research that does not destroy human life, and is also more effective than research that destroys human life.)

There is nothing written in the draft guidelines to prevent future funding for embryonic stem cell research that could lead to the creation of clones and human-animal hybrids. There should be no delay in closing this loophole.

Stem cell research is a very important issue, and, as proven by history, the world is watching the United States to see what our approach to it will be. As a citizen of this nation under God, it is my duty to oppose any proposed legislation that would undermine the American rights of "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." I am opposing this draft guideline and calling it what it is: an attempt to devalue life, by destroying one life in order to maybe save another. There can be no cause for such "research," especially not when adult stem cell research is proving to be a more positive path for curing many diseases.

By dragging out and pushing the most controversial of avenues, which should not even be considered, you are delaying the research which would be truly helpful, supportive and respectful of all life: choose adult stem cell research.

Babies, Babies, Babies

Our new nephew Zadok was born on March 23, 2009. What a lovely Monday that was! He is a beautiful boy, and is very healthy, doing well, as are his parents. What a cute little squeaker!

I call him "little bird," because his cute chubby cheeks remind me of a baby bluebird. 

xo,

Noelle

Sometimes we don't have to understand, we just have to believe

I like to understand things. If I don't "get" something, I like to learn about it. That is just my nature. I am curious! But sometimes that desire for understanding everything can come from a need to control situations. (Boy, that subject could fill a few blogs, eh?) But God reminded me of a couple of things last night and this morning that I'd like to share.

• PRAY FOR THE U.S.A. - We need to be praying for the USA especially during this time. It seems like the shadow of Socialism is taking over our nation. I sometimes get so overwhelmed at the thought, because, like you (hopefully), I love this country of freedom under God. But as Jaime so kindly reminded me, we cannot always see the big picture (or airplane view, as Mama Jill says!); so we have to trust in Him that He has a plan for each of us - and our nation.

• DON'T WORRY! - We don't need to waste time worrying, or giving any credence to the media, which now only exists to make money by means of fear-mongering. (Right?) So instead, let's turn to the Lord and His Word, which is always timely, no matter what generation reads it. Let's hold on tightly to His promises, and trust that He will work this whole situation out - even with the corrupt and evil people who are being appointed into positions of power. Just as God used Moses and Pharoh, he still can sway the hearts of kings and leaders.

• IT WILL ALL WORK OUT - He promises that He will work everything out for our good, because we belong to Him! See? -->
  

28 "And we know that in all things

God works for the good of those who love him,

who have been called according to his purpose."

38For I am convinced that neither death nor life,

neither angels nor demons,

neither the present nor the future,

nor any powers,

39neither height nor depth,

nor anything else in all creation,

will be able to separate us from the love of God

that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Romans 8 (NIV)

• SEEK GOD, NOT PUNDITS - We really need to call out to God, and seek Him. God was never about the business of politics. He is love, and love personified. He wants our hearts to turn and cry out to Him! We need to humble ourselves before Him, and remember that He is the God of creation, the God of the universe. He knows and created every good thing, including the deep mysteries of science and every dimension still undiscovered by man. It is that same God who desires a relationship with you and me.

11 "For I know the plans I have for you,"

declares the LORD,

"plans to prosper you and not to harm you,

plans to give you hope and a future.

12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me,

and I will listen to you.

13 You will seek me and find me

when you seek me with all your heart.

Jeremiah 29 (NIV)

6 "Therefore humble yourselves

[demote, lower yourselves in your own estimation]

under the mighty hand of God,

that in due time He may exalt you,
7Casting the whole of your care

[all your anxieties, all your worries,

all your concerns, once and for all]

on Him, for He cares for you affectionately

and cares about you watchfully.
8Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind),

be vigilant and cautious at all times;

for that enemy of yours, the devil,

roams around like a lion

roaring [in fierce hunger],

seeking someone to seize upon and devour.
9Withstand him; be firm in faith

[against his onset--rooted, established, strong,

immovable, and determined],

knowing that the same (identical) sufferings are

appointed to your brotherhood

(the whole body of Christians) throughout the world.
10And after you have suffered a little while,

the God of all grace [Who imparts all blessing and favor],

Who has called you to His [own] eternal glory

in Christ Jesus, will Himself complete

and make you what you ought to be,

establish and ground you securely,

and strengthen, and settle you.
11To Him be the dominion (power, authority, rule)

forever and ever. Amen (so be it)."

I Peter 5 (Amplified)

**********

So God, I want to cast every little care I have on You.

I know that You are big enough to carry my burdens

and the burdens of the world,

because you already did.

I pray right now that the the peoples' hearts will turn to You;

not to religion, or some mechanical ritual, but to You,

the beautiful, dangerous, loving,

never-changing Lord of heaven and earth.

I don't understand all that You're doing right now,

but I thank You that You care for me,

and have made a way for me

to have a direct relationship with You through Jesus, your Son.

I pray that You will draw near to us,

as we draw near to You.

I thank You that others will come into agreement with me in this prayer,

and that You listen to the prayer of our hearts,

and let us hear your heart too.

May we stand up for justice, liberty,

life and righteousness - all that You are.

I don't understand what's happening

behind the scenes of these trying times,

but I believe that you have the lives of your children

and the nations in the palm of Your scarred hand.

I believe that You are stirring the hearts of Your people.

If you can use anyone, here I am.

Amen.

Goodbye is not the end...

My family recently lost a dear friend and brother.

Rock "Rocky" Thomas Green
September 20, 1974—February 25, 2009

Man, Rocky, just when I can actually remember your (non-national-holiday) birthday, you go and celebrate a new kind of birth! Ain't that the way... I will miss your presence, Rock, and your unwavering faith in Jesus. God speed the moment when we'll all be reunited in the presence of our savior.

Among other things, Rocky demonstrated a candid faith, and a passion for living that is contagious. He wasn't afraid of anything; not the strong currents of the Pacific, not the desert-like seasons of life, not even death. And he walked through each of those, with a lion's heart, into victory. I hope that my faith can reflect his. I hope to live in such a way that continues his legacy of faith, passion and fearlessness.

Here are some great thoughts from Rocky himself. These two excerpts are most recently from Rocky's Lubbock, TX memorial service program.

(Thanks, Heidi, for sending one to us.)

DAYS YOU THOUGHT WOULD NEVER END
This album is a collection of songs representing a period of my life that has recently passed. It was a time that started with difficult changes, and, I immediately found myself challenged at my core. For years I struggled with goals and dreams and my place in life (geographically and, of course, figuratively). I lived in a setting that was disconnected from my past, and I often felt that everything I stood for was future tense. Even the people around me seemed to confirm that my value as a person was largely found in my potential. Reality as I knew it was the daily struggle against the temptation to define myself by my surroundings. And at the same time, I felt the need to be productive and even content with the days God has given me. As I look back, I see that He was teaching me who I really am, what hope really is, and how to hang onto it. The reward for holding onto Jesus as He plowed through all that unpleasant wilderness is just starting to be made known as I watch the sun set on that era. As I ponder all this, I realize the metaphorical significance of this period in my life. It is, in fact, just a small sample of the rest of my days, and there are many more challenges to come. Undoubtedly, my whole life could be titled, “Days You Thought Would Never End.” And ultimately, I will be sitting on the other side of those days, finally understanding the reward for holding onto Jesus through the midst of this mirage that we call the real world.

— Rocky Green

__________________________________________

All of these words really spoke to me, because Jaime & I have been going through a similar season of searching for place in the world, despite - and beyond - circumstances.

Rocky lived what he wrote and said. I remember the last time we got to hang out (June 2007). Rocky, Jaime and I walked along the beach near his Encinitas, CA, home, and he didn't know our entire situation, but he really listened and absorbed it as we all went along barefoot. Jaime & I explained that we wanted to go on an adventure, and find a "musically inclined" town to settle down in. Rocky pointed out that no matter where you go, it's really the people that make all the difference.

And Rock and his family did make all the difference in my and my family's life. We used to share every day together, barefoot kids running around in bathing suits, taking the secret little path to the beach, and coming back and hosing off in time for burritos and fellowship and music and laughter. But I always looked up to Rocky, and still do.

Another thing Rocky taught me by his example is to be real. He was always himself, his whole life. He never tried to pretend to be someone he was not. He struggled with his life's meaning, but never lost sight of the anchor of his existence. He was steadfast, and I know that somehow I, who have forgotten myself many times, can draw hope and meaning from the same source that Rocky found. I have been reminded who I am by his knowing who he is.

Even now, God has been ministering truth into my life through Rocky. So thanks, God. And thanks, Rock, for living like a lion, with all your heart and unto the Lord - surfing, playing music, being a fierce friend. Your life reminds me how much one person matters to God, and how much God can use that one person if they give Him the chance.

________________________________

Vapor
By Rocky Green

I decorate my time
Thoughts and dreams
Dissertation and rhyme
Minutes are flyin’ and I’m racin’
With my mind

As the day makes history
It is a chance for you and me
To respond to the miracle we see

Time is quick and the moment is fluid
There’s little you can do
When you get right down to it
Life is a vapor, and I’m breathing through it
With all of my might

Better to live as a lion for a day
Than throw your whole life to the dogs
Once all the years and the minutes fade away
They’re all irretrievably gone

Rocky's ashes were carried out to sea at his home surf spot in Cali.

(That's his wife, Jena, in the middle, and brother, Caleb Jude, second from the right.)

Surfers of all ages paddled out in Rocky's honor.

They gathered in a circle to pour Rocky's remains back into the ocean he loved to surf, and afterward gave a loud victory roar.

Go in peace, my friend.

Goodby is not the end.